By Caitlin Kelly
Growing up Jason Clark would often work alongside his father, who was employed in the carnival business. Following in his father’s steps, he began using the cotton candy machine and booking small events to supplement his family’s income. Jason’s wife Amanda Clark described these early days of cotton candy as a “hobby”, indicating Jason would initially book events at random, whenever he received a special request or felt the pull to revisit his sugary roots.
Soon more requests were coming in and Jason decided to take his hobby to a new level and launch an official business. Jason joined forces with wife Amanda and friends Greg Anger and Samantha Tofflemire and Cottam Candy Snack Co. was born.
Opening a business is not without its challenges and has not always been an easy journey. Amanda Clark recalled the early days of the business, when the four co-owners would brainstorm ways to find success with the company.
Although business began to pick up quickly, the foursome could have never imagined Cottam Candy Snack Co. would take off and become what it is today. This new collaborative business venture allowed the company to truly reach for the stars.
The group still holds on to the cotton candy roots, though they have also become known for more recent additions. Locals flock to Cottam Candy Snack Co. to enjoy fresh lemonade, mini donuts, candy apples, and caramel apples.
Today, Cottam Candy is a local staple at festivals and pop-up markets. You may have seen them at Art in the Park, Belle River Stroll the Street, or the Kingsville Highland Games, and you still have plenty of opportunity to catch them at Kingsville Open Streets, Cindy’s Night Markets, and the Cottam Horse Show – among other events.
When the joint owners of Cottam Candy Snack Co. were approached by the Willow Tree Market in Kingsville regarding developing a retail program, Amanda recalls being so grateful that someone was willing to take a chance on their business, a chance that would largely increase the reach of Cottam Candy Snack Co. The group immediately saw the advantage in this partnership, and the now-thriving retail program was launched.
The collaboration with the Willow Tree Market has been a success, and Amanda reported being contacted by several other local retailers since the initial launch of the retail program.
On behalf of all four owners, Amanda expressed gratitude for the hometown support of the business, indicating small town communities “love to support someone who is home-grown, and we love supporting them too”. Each event draws a stronger connection to the community and Amanda described the joy they all feel when they see their “regular customers” out in the community.
What’s next for Cottam Candy Snack Co.? You’ll have to follow along to find out! Cottam Candy’s menu and event schedule can be found on their Facebook or Instagram pages.
As well as local events and markets, Cottam Candy Snack Co. is available for custom parties.
As Amanda stated, Cottam Candy Snack Co. is “always so honoured, when someone wants to have a little bit of Cottam Candy at their celebration.”
If you are interested in adding a layer of local sweetness to your next birthday party, wedding, or shower, contact Cottam Candy at cottamcandy@gmail.com.
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